Review: KAMI AND THE YAKS by Andrea Stenn Stryer

Stryer, Andrea Stenn. 2007. Kami and the yaks. Ill. by Bert Dodson. Palo Alto, CA: Bay Otter Press. ISBN 9780977896103.

PLOT SUMMARY:
When the yaks that Kami’s Sherpa family relies on to earn a living go missing, Kami determinedly searches for them. When he finally finds them and discovers that one is trapped, he makes his way through a hail storm alert his father.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
The watercolor illustrations by Bert Dodson are expressive and detailed. The colors used closely follow the story’s mood. The first half of the book, when Kami searches for the yaks and struggles through the hail storm, is illustrated with cool, blue tones. In those pages, Kami’s red garment is the only source of warm colors. When Kami reaches his family and guides them to the yaks, the sky lightens and warm colors are introduced into the paintings.

Kami’s inability to hear is not introduced right away in the book. A few pages in, the author lets the reader know that he is deaf. This detail about Kami is handled authentically through the book. Stryer makes sure to describe the observations that Kami makes through sight, smell, and feeling, rather than sound. For example, when the storm hits, Stryer describes the sizzling smell of the flashing lightning as well as the vibrations that Kami feels from the thunder. When Kami tries to tell his father about the trapped yak, Stryer briefly explains to the reader that “because he never heard words, Kami was not able to speak.” Although Kami and his family do not seem to use a formal version of sign language, Kami is able to communicate through gestures.

Although Stryer does provide brief background information about Sherpas in an author’s note at the end of the book, it would have been interesting to learn more about the boy who inspired the book.

REVIEWS:
School Library Journal: Although Kami's disability plays an important role in the story, the author focuses on his strength. Readers will find inspiration in his abilities, his resourcefulness, and his courage. Dark, yet vivid watercolors extend the text, as both awaken the senses to the sights, sounds, and feel of the icy cold mountains' austere beauty. This story opens the doors to new worlds and gives readers a character to admire.

CONNECTIONS:
According to Stryer’s website, hers is the only Western children’s book about the Sherpa in Nepal. A quick internet search proves this claim to be nearly true. However, in 2009, Olga Cossi published the book Pemba Sherpa about a young Sherpa girl who wants to be a guide.